Westminster Economic Development Initiative - WEDI

 The Westminster Economic Development Initiative (WEDI) began as a mission of Westminster Presbyterian Church to improve the quality of life for the residents of Buffalo’s West Side, but became a separate 501(c)3 organization by 2007.

WEDI’s approach to implementing its mission currently includes the ENERGY after-school program and promoting economic development through programs in business development, mentoring, micro-loans, and the West Side Bazaar.

WEDI’s economic development initiative arose from the identified needs of the West Side neighborhoods.  The West Side of Buffalo, particularly the Grant Street area, was once a thriving commercial district within the city but deteriorated dramatically over the years. To become vital again, the area has recognized the need for new small retail businesses to meet the needs of the local and diverse community as well as attract shoppers from within the area and from the larger Western New York community.